Over 230 PHA workers sacked

Unions protest dismissals as horticulture agency blames funding cuts

RAWALPINDI:

The Rawalpindi Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) has laid off 236 employees, citing a severe financial crisis.

Their salaries have also been stopped, while none of the dismissed employees will receive any financial assistance.

A list for the dismissal of more employees in the second phase has also started being prepared. The government has imposed major cuts on the funds of the horticulture agency.

Funds of the Municipal Corporation, Rawalpindi Development Authority, WASA and District Council have also been reduced.

As a result, the mega project for widening Nullah Leh Express, which is blamed for causing severe destruction across the city every year, has also been shelved.

The project for removing silt from Nullah Leh and 15 stormwater drains before this year's monsoon season had also fallen victim to a lack of funds.

Employees dismissed from the Horticulture Agency and their union staged a protest against the dismissals and chanted slogans against the Punjab government.

The union of the PHA also announced launching a protest movement in collaboration with labour unions of the Rawalpindi Development Authority, WASA and Municipal Corporation against the dismissals and major cuts in funds.

The dismissed employees and union members staged a strong protest outside the office.

Addressing the gathering, labour union leaders said the economic killing of Rawalpindi Horticulture Agency employees should be stopped.